Hamburg has long been a great place for food lovers. If you are looking for a delicious meal or just a snack, you have come to the right place. From takeaways to fine dining, Hamburg has it all. But there are certain treats that only Hamburg can offer. Here are the top treats for any foodie visiting Hamburg.
Local Dishes From Hamburg
Hamburg is renowned for its local dishes, so it would be a shame to miss out on sampling one or two. Here are some you should try while you are in town:
• Aalsuppe: A traditional eatery in Hamburg, Aal’s serve soup made with a whole eel and vegetables. The sauce is served separately. It’s an old-school experience that should not be missed.
• Fischbrötchen: A very local specialty, Fischbrötchen are served in almost every café. They consist of fried fish, herbs, onions, and mayonnaise in a soft bun.
• Labskaus: Labskaus is a hearty dish made with corned beef, mashed potatoes, and onions. It is typically served with pickles, diced or boiled eggs, or even apple sauce.
• Franzbrötchen: A classic breakfast item in Hamburg, Franzbrötchen is served with jam, butter, and sugar. It’s an excellent way to start your day in Hamburg.
International Cuisine in Hamburg
Hamburg is a vibrant city and that is reflected in its cuisine. The city caters for all tastes, whether you are looking for traditional German fare or international cuisine. Here are some of the best places to get international cuisine in Hamburg:
• French: Les Deux Vagabonds is a classic French restaurant that is perfect for a special dinner out. The menu changes regularly but expect to find dishes like mussel soup, frog’s legs, and cassoulet.
• Indian: YOGC is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up authentic Indian dishes. The menu has a nice selection of vegetarian dishes as well as plenty of meat.
• Italian: Trattoria Limoncello is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in Hamburg. It serves classic Italian dishes, such as panzerotti, arancini, and pizzas.
• Mexican: If you’re looking for a Tex-Mex treat, head to El Chicano. The menu features tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and more.
• Japanese: Inaga is one of the top Japanese restaurants in the city. Everything is freshly prepared and the ramen menu is particularly good.
Where to Find Hamburg’s Street Food
Hamburg’s street food scene is thriving and there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are the best places to start:
• Reeperbahn: This is a great spot to find a bite to eat. There are plenty of stands and food trucks serving up delicious food, like Döner kebabs, grilled sausages, and pretzels.
• St. Pauli Hafenmarkt: This market hosts a variety of food stalls. You can find everything from Mediterranean dishes to Mexican food.
• Sternschanze: This is a vibrant area and it’s a great spot to find food. You’ll find everything from Turkish döner kebabs to traditional German sausages.
• HafenCity: This modern area is home to some great eateries. You’ll find plenty of seafood options, as well as some creative dishes.
• Marktstrasse: This neighborhood is home to various eateries and food trucks. Take your pick between Caribbean dishes, Thai cuisine, and German specialties.
Souvenirs and Sweet Treats
One of the best things about travel is bringing back a few souvenirs. Here are some things to take home from Hamburg:
• Marzipan: Marzipan is a sweet treat that is popular in Germany and particularly in Hamburg. The speciality is “Hamburger Aal”, which is made to look like a delicate fish.
• Speckware: This is a type of butter-baked pastry. Popular flavors include chocolate, almond, hazelnut, and poppyseed.
• Fisch kuttten: This is a traditional candy that is sold by the piece or by weight. It is usually made with sugar and spices and comes in various shapes.
• Fish Smoked or Pickled: This is a great souvenir and you’ll have no trouble finding smoked or pickled fish in Hamburg. It’s the perfect snack to enjoy on the plane ride home.
Hamburg is an exciting city, where you will find great local and international restaurants. There are plenty of street food options to explore, too. You should also take some time to sample traditional German dishes. You’ll also want to buy some edible souvenirs, like marzipan and speckware, to take back home. With so much to explore, you’ll find plenty of treats to tantalize your taste buds. Bon appétit!
